The Broncos did not use a second-round draft choice on Montee Ball to have him sit on the bench next to Ronnie Hillman. Coach John Fox likes to run the rock. Despite the presence of Peyton Manning at quarterback, the Broncos want to exhibit more toughness on the road to the Super Bowl.

So who can give the Broncos more muscle in their running attack? Can Ball step in, earn the trust of Manning on passing downs and become Denver’s leading rusher as a rookie? At age 31, can Willis McGahee win back the spot as featured running back, despite his recent history of injury and fumbling? I say Ball will lead the team in rushing as a rookie. Peter Burns thinks the leading rusher will be somebody else, and the answer might surprise you. Listen to us debate here: